The Best Smartphones You Can Buy in 2024
Which smartphone should you buy in 2024? To help you choose between models like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, iPhone 16 Pro, or Google Pixel 9 Pro, we have taken a closer look at the best camera smartphone, the most powerful smartphone, the best foldable smartphone, or the smartphone with the best price-performance ratio. In this buying guide, we recommend the best smartphones in 2024.
The best smartphones in 2024 in comparison
When you choose a high-end smartphone, you can usually be sure that you'll get the best screen, the best performance, or even the best camera. In the last few years, high-end smartphones have grown more and more into luxury devices, be it in terms of design, internal components, or the increasingly higher price.
Speaking of it: The foldable phones, which tend to be high-priced, are becoming more and more popular, which is why we now also list two different categories in the best list: One for the flip phones in the compact form factor and the other for the larger models in the "butterfly" format.
For this buying guide, we have divided smartphones into different categories to accommodate different budgets and types of use. For example, you will not find the latest 200 MP image sensor or the most powerful SoC in a mid-range smartphone. That's why we have picked out some of the most important features that you should consider when buying a smartphone.
nextpit recommends: These are the best smartphones in 2024
Want to know more about the different smartphones? In the following paragraphs, we briefly present our favorites and go into the advantages and disadvantages. Because depending on the user type, a different smartphone is the perfect choice.
The best smartphone of 2024: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The king is dead, long live the king—that's the motto for the best smartphone of the still young year. Last year's S23 Ultra from Samsung's flagship series is now being replaced by the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Currently, this is perhaps the best smartphone ever, but in our opinion, it is at least the best smartphone with Android.
Hardly anything has changed on the outside. The design is almost identical, but Samsung now uses titanium for the frame, just like its competitor Apple. The comparison between the Galaxy S24 Ultra and S23 Ultra doesn't reveal many other differences at first glance. But don't let the almost identical spec sheet put you off!
The 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display appears unchanged at first glance but shines even brighter than its predecessor. This top smartphone is now powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and the operating system is the new One UI 6 interface based on Android 14.
The absolute cracker: Samsung promises us a whopping seven years of Android and security updates! Thanks to Galaxy AI, artificial intelligence is supposed to give the Galaxy S24 Ultra an extra boost, but our tester Antoine is not yet completely convinced.
The camera setup also looks almost unchanged, although the telephoto camera with 10x optical zoom has been replaced by a camera with 5x zoom, which now boasts 50 MP.
The battery life is also absolutely convincing, as the benchmark test attests the S24 Ultra an outstanding 19 hours. We'll keep quiet about the fact that it still only charges at 45 W and that this charger is not included in the box.
If you want to secure this top-of-the-range box, you will have to pay at least $1300. But for that you also get the best that is currently available in the Android camp.
Good
- Premium titanium design
- Flat 120 Hz screen, more ergonomic, and as bright as ever
- Top performance and battery life
- Efficient and (slightly) less versatile camera module
- Integrated S Pen
- 7 Android updates & 7 years of security updates
Bad
- Expensive
- Galaxy AI functions are still too gimmicky
- Charging speed is far too slow
The best iPhone 2024: Apple iPhone 16 Pro
Phone design has pretty much settled in the past 8 years since the launch of the iPhone X (or the Essential Phone if you are a smartphone database). To distinguish the 2024 iPhone 16 Pro from its predecessors, Apple added a multi-function button, the Camera Control, that serves as a shortcut not only for the camera app but also to the app's settings. Opinions on its usefulness vary wildly, but at least Apple is trying.
The other new feature for the iPhone 16 range is "Apple Intelligence" a suite of AI features that are gradually rolling out. But those are also available on the 15 Pro phones. Buzzwords aside, the iPhone 16 Pro also comes with a more efficient processor and a generous amount of RAM, plus (slightly) better battery life and a bigger display that keeps the same maximum brightness, but can be dimmed darker for night use.
And as usual, Apple brought a couple of camera improvements, with support for 120 FPS recording at 4K resolution, a 48-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a farther-reaching 5x zoom lens that adds some versatility but leaves a bit to be desired in intermediate ranges down to the main camera.
Good
- High-quality workmanship with more robust material
- Improved camera, especially at night
- Noticeably longer battery life
- Camera Control button is really fun
- Powerful A18 Pro chipset
Bad
- No major changes compared to the iPhone 15 Pro
- No Glowtime without Apple Intelligence
Best camera phone in 2024: Google Pixel 9 Pro
The Pixel family was starting to feel predictable in the design department, with rounded corners and a build that didn't feel premium as its price. It all changed in 2024 with the Pixel 9 family, which also expanded with a small Pro model that mixes the basic model dimensions with the features of the Pro XL.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro is a competitive (if a bit expensive) option for those looking for a relatively compact phone with all the flagship features, including a telephoto lens, long-term software support, and even niche features such as UWB or the quirky thermometer. The phone's performance is starting to feel lacking, but the Pixel 9 Pro is the best compact camera you can fit in your pockets.
Good
- Versatile cameras
- Excellent display
- Good build quality
- The best software update policy
Bad
- Outdated performance
- Slow charging speeds
The best mid-range smartphone: Google Pixel 7a
Don't necessarily want a pricey flagship and looking for a budget smartphone that still lets you do everything you want? Then the Pixel 7a is precisely the right choice for you! The best smartphone under $500 in 2024 has no mercy on the competition and offers a pretty strong spec sheet and a very pleasant user experience.
It has a 6.1-inch OLED display, a Tensor-G2 SoC, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage for the latest games and apps, an impressive 64MP dual camera, and a 4,385-watt battery that can be recharged at 18 watts. The Pixel 7a also has a compact size, good performance, best-in-class photo quality, and wireless charging.
Although the charging speed does not exactly speak for the smartphone and Google does not include the charger, the Pixel 7a is undoubtedly the best mid-range smartphone you can currently buy.
Even though the 7a got a successor in the 8a model, its continued availability coupled with strong discounts make it even more attractive, and that is why we have kept this suggestion instead of replacing it with the Pixel 8a.
Good
- Compact design
- Top-notch performance
- Versatile and trustworthy camera
- All-day long battery
- Wireless charging
Bad
- Slow charging time
- No power adapter in the box
OnePlus Open: The best foldable phone in 2024
The OnePlus Open has already secured a spot on our list of the best foldable phones, taking the lead as the go-to device for this year. Given its prowess, it's no surprise to find it on our 2024 top smartphones list as well.
Foldable phones are becoming increasingly popular, aren't they? We've transitioned from viewing them as mere futuristic novelties to practical daily drivers. However, it's essential to note that not every foldable meets user expectations. Some might be too pricey, while others might present minor setbacks.
However, the OnePlus seems to have nailed it. The phone boasts an appealing design, superior functionality, and here's the best bit: it's more "affordable" compared to its rivals. Though it's initially priced at $1,699, OnePlus Store offers an enticing trade-in deal, potentially lowering the cost to $1,499.
Shifting our focus to its features, the OnePlus Open bears some resemblance to the Galaxy Z Fold 5 (review) in design but stands out with its unique charm. When it comes to charging? It's like a race car, always leading the pack. Its multitasking capabilities, especially the innovative 'Recent fold' and OnePlus Canvas, redefine productivity.
Photography enthusiasts will be thrilled with its Hasselblad 48 MP camera—a real game-changer. While some may think it's just clever marketing that has us singing its praises, our team has had hands-on experience and the verdict? We're thoroughly impressed. In short, if a foldable is on your wishlist this year, the OnePlus Open is a top contender. It's feature-rich, and an absolute pleasure to use.
Good
- User-friendly when open or closed
- Alert Slider onboard
- Excellent camera performance
- Reliable and consistent performance
- All-day battery life
- Rapid 67 W SuperVOOC charging
Bad
- No room (yet) for exclusive UI customization between displays
- Omitted wireless charging for design
The best compact foldable: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
After a big upgrade in 2023 with a larger external display, Samsung played it conservatively in 2024 with the Galaxy Z Flip 6. Meanwhile, its rivals Motorola and Xiaomi launched flip foldables with even bigger displays, and in the case of the Xiaomi Mix Flip, a powerful battery.
Still, our recommendation goes to the good old Samsung Flip in 2024. Despite the rivals' improvements (and even leaps over the South Koreans), the Galaxy Z Flip 6 still has a bunch of advantages, like better dust resistance, a better track record of reliability on the foldable display, and an unmatched seven years of security and software updates.
Samsung upgraded the phone with the current highest-performing chip in the Android ecosystem, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 also found in our top pick, upgraded the battery to a 4000 mAh capacity, and increased the RAM by 50% (from 8 to 12 GB), the latter probably due to the memory requirements of AI.
Speaking of AI, the Flip 6 packs a bunch of nifty features, including the auto-framing feature when taking pictures, plus all the other stuff covered in Casi Drees' Galaxy AI review.
The Galaxy Flip price is still high, and there were basically no upgrades when it comes to the displays and charging. Even so, Samsung seems confident that its rivals are still playing catch up, so the main obstacle to great sales for the Z Flip 6 are probably the discounts offered on the previous generation phone.
Good
- Durable design with IP48 dust resistance
- Seven years of software updates
- Excellent performance with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Improved 50MP main camera
- All-day battery life
Bad
- 10% more expensive, starting at $1,099
- Difficult one-handed use
- The outer display lacks app support
- The camera struggles with dynamic range
- Slow recharge, no charger included
Buying guide: What smartphones will offer in 2024
Every year, smartphone manufacturers try to add exciting new features to their models—from cameras to batteries to the form factor itself. Below are a few tips on what you should look out for when buying a smartphone in 2024.
What features do current flagship smartphones offer?
- Form factor: Foldable displays are probably the most exciting development in smartphones in recent years. Thanks to flexible screens, the form factors of the phones themselves are also becoming more flexible. In 2024, you will have the choice between the ultra-compact Galaxy Z Flip 5, the butterfly foldable phone OnePlus Open, or the standard formats from iPhone to Google. You can find a current overview of the foldable smartphones here:
- Cameras: The vast majority of upper-class smartphones offer at least three cameras on the back—for ultra-wide angle, standard wide angle and telephoto. Do not be blinded by the resolutions here: The difference between 12 and 108 megapixels is not as big as the numbers suggest. More important are factors like the sensor size or the image processing algorithms. You can read more about this in the respective smartphone tests or in the following article.
- Batteries: In 2024, the battery life of flagships is no longer really an issue. Even with intensive use, you can get through the day with the vast majority of models. However, the differences are bigger when it comes to charging: While OnePlus charges its smartphones completely with 67 watts in a few minutes, Apple and Samsung are more conservative. More information about batteries and fast charging can be found in the following article.
- Display: First 60, then 90, 120, or 144 hertz: Over the past two years, smartphones have gotten faster and faster displays—and since 2021, finally also the Pro models of the iPhone 13. High refresh rates ensure a smoother display, whether in gaming or in everyday use. However, the high Hertz rates also eat away at the battery, so the manufacturers usually adjust the refresh rates depending on the displayed content. You can read more about screens via the following link.
- Processing power & co.: You hardly have to worry about sufficient performance in a premium smartphone in 2024. All the better phones offer more than enough power for current games—and for everyday use anyway. The same applies to 5G, which is now standard on smartphones. However, you should carefully consider how much memory you need before buying. Expansion options via microSD card are almost non-existent in the upper class.
What do you think of this list, and which upcoming smartphone are you looking forward to the most?
This article was updated in November 2024 with updated picks. Existing comments have been kept and may seem out of context.
well am missing Huawei smartphones they have far better than all these phones you can say that am obsessed with this brand or whatever but i didn't get comfort with any brand yet
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Admin
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Staff
1 month ago Link to commentHave you tried Honor phones?
Their interface is basically identical to Huawei's, and they are not banned from using Google apps and services. (the workarounds on Huawei phones are usually fine, but not for everyone).
I love to use Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3
Coming from already owning a phone that's doing everything I ask of it, none of these phones strike me as worthwhile. They're all software abusers of the consumer.
There are phones coming to market that should be better at that critical thing than all of these phones. They'll likely be somewhat lesser hardware. But the hardware is more than adequate, it's the software that's so abusive right now.
It's time for that to change if the companies want to sell me a phone.
My LG V30 has just turned 3 years old and its battery has been worn out over time. I 'm also tired of being stuck with android 9. Should I replace the battery or should I wait for the Galaxy s22 Ultra and buy it?
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Admin
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Nov 12, 2021 Link to commentIf Android updates are important, one option to consider (depending on where you live) is the Pixel 6.
I don 't like google 's design approach, as well as I don' t like the stock Android OS. Because of that, I 'm not considering devices with a non-customized UI. I 've also been a Samsung fan in the past (I also liked the Touchwiz UI), so the Google Pixel is definitely not a good choice for me!
Last, but not least, only samsung devices allow to disable fast charge, meaning that I can choose to charge at a maximum of 5V and 2A ( or maybe 3), no matter how much powerful is the charger I use.
Pixel and Fairphone are the only phones of interest to me on the list. My phone is more productivity focused and so gaming level features aren't worth the money. I've been very satisfied with mid tier phones for quite a while now.
I guess I don't wAnt to wave a flag. None of these interest me at all
I think LG phones are good
Motorola Edge should be released soon,and with Samsung now struggling with the sales of there new S20 models,they have got stop over pricing there phones,or they will be struggling soon,and its there own problem cause by copying the pricing policy of Apple
OnePlus is too expensive to merit best value.
The upgrades are coming day by day but there is some new phone nowadays and it is amazing
Thanks
Been Using Galaxy Note 8 for 3 years and S10+ for awhile and they have the best Specs and Features!! Lovin' it!!
I've been using the s10+ since it's release. This phone is simply a pleasure to use. I really have no complaints. All the premium features. Display, cameras & battery are excellent, there is no finer even after 8 mos of very heavy use!
I'm rockin a Samsung Galaxy S10 and loving it, my only gripe is the lack of an LED notification. That said its great so far. My wife has the Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ and she says its the best device shes ever owned. Does anyone know when Samsung is releasing android 10 & the new One UI 2?
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Admin
Oct 29, 2019 Link to commentOnly expensive ones
Android phones are the best in terms of cost because iPhones are expensive! Recently, one of my friends has bought Huawei P30 Pro. This phone has excellent features and less price.
£234 as 'best value'?! Come off it. My Moto G5+ was £159 nearly 2 years ago, the G6 and its Play version are now similarly priced...
While I'm at it, imo it's high time smartphone users, makers and commentators started demanding that ALL battery-powered devices (not only phones...) have batteries that can be replaced by the user. Getting a new phone because the battery is failing is simply unsustainable - and we all KNOW that in our hearts of hearts...